From a young age, I have been passionate about food. I have some fond memories of baking in the kitchen with my mum and the awesome treat of licking the bowl and the beaters.
Flashback to early teens...I got more into cooking, as opposed to baking. One time, I designed a three course menu, even invited one of the neigbours over to join mum, dad and I. My dad analysed everything I did that night, from setting the table, to cooking, presentation, taste and how I cleaned up the kitchen as I went. It was an interesting night to say the least. My score was pretty high for everything, with the exception of keeping the kitchen tidy. Ooooops.
Next major memory, aged 15, living in Melbourne at the time and I would go grocery shopping with my
nd get all the ingredients we needed. Dad would supervise me in the kitchen and I would cr
eate a meal for the family. I loved those nights. Images sourced from Herald Sun - Sydney.
Who remembers these???
Grade 12 saw me choose 'Home Economics' as an elective as I had decided I wanted to become a chef. I even received an Academic Excellence Award from my high school and to celebrate my 18th birthday I had to have a four hour exam designing a menu and cooking for my teacher.
So, as a fresh-faced 18 year old, I started a two-year course in 'Business Catering' and was amerced in de-boning chickens, mis en place, croissants and gateau's and frying frozen ice-cream. I also worked in cafes and restaurants as I studied, which really opened my eyes to the world of food. After two years, I graduated and could have easily stepped into a third-year chef apprenticeship. Got to love the mid 90's fashion in these photos.
After spending a few years in this industry both working and studying, I came to the realisation that I didn't want to lose my passion for cooking, which I felt I would if I kept along the pathway of becoming a chef.
Cooking shows have and still are a favourite of mine. I am not really interested in the competitive reality TV shows, but more about experiencing foods from other cultures, simple recipes and crazy gastronomical dishes from the likes of Heston Blumenthal.
Fast Forward to 2021 - I still haven't lost my passion for food. I love entertaining and cooking different feasts. AND, now, I get to not only cook for my friends and family, I get to have cooking adventures with my clients. From baking and decorating cookies to birthday cakes, from learning vegan dishes to family meal prep. Every day a new experience.
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